Methods are disclosed which can be performed by a network node for sending to a wireless device a first synchronization signal and an associated information message, for synchronization of the wireless device with the network node. The network node and the wireless device operate in a wireless communications network. The network node sends the first synchronization signal in N OFDM symbols within a subframe, at least once in a time and frequency position in every one of the N OFDM symbols. N is equal or larger than 2. For each sending of the first synchronization signal, the network node sends an associated information message at a pre-defined time and frequency position in an OFDM symbol. The pre-defined time and frequency position is relative to the time and frequency position of the first synchronization signal. The associated information message is associated with the first synchronization signal.
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2. The method of claim 1 wherein the index is an index to one of a set of possible sequences, each of which maps uniquely to at least a subframe offset.
This invention relates to indexing systems for sequence mapping in communication protocols, particularly for determining subframe offsets in wireless networks. The problem addressed is the need for an efficient and reliable way to map sequences to specific subframe offsets, which is critical for synchronization and timing in wireless communications. The method involves using an index to reference one of a set of possible sequences, where each sequence corresponds uniquely to at least a subframe offset. This ensures that the sequence can be directly associated with a specific timing position within a communication frame, enabling precise synchronization between transmitting and receiving devices. The index serves as a compact identifier that simplifies the process of retrieving the correct sequence and its associated subframe offset, reducing computational overhead and improving system efficiency. The sequences may be part of a predefined set, such as synchronization signals or reference signals, where each sequence is designed to occupy a distinct subframe position. By mapping each sequence to a unique subframe offset, the system avoids ambiguity and ensures accurate timing alignment. This is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple devices must synchronize their transmissions within a shared time frame, such as in cellular networks or other wireless communication systems. The method enhances reliability by ensuring that the index-to-sequence mapping is unambiguous, preventing errors that could arise from incorrect sequence selection. It also supports scalability, as the set of possible sequences can be expanded to accommodate additional subframe offsets as needed. Overall, the invention provides a robust solution for sequence-based timing synchronization in w
3. The method of claim 1, further comprising transmitting the PSS in a different beam in each of the N OFDM symbols.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to techniques for transmitting a Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS) in a cellular network. The problem addressed is improving synchronization and detection reliability in multi-beam environments, where signals may be obstructed or degraded due to interference or channel conditions. The method involves transmitting the PSS across multiple Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing (OFDM) symbols, with each symbol carrying the PSS in a different beam. This ensures that the PSS is broadcast in multiple directions, increasing the likelihood of successful reception by user devices. The PSS is a critical signal used by devices to synchronize with the network, and transmitting it in this manner enhances coverage and robustness, particularly in scenarios with dynamic beamforming or beam failure conditions. The technique may also include selecting the beams based on channel state information or beamforming patterns to optimize signal strength and reduce interference. By distributing the PSS across multiple beams and OFDM symbols, the system improves synchronization performance without requiring additional bandwidth or excessive signaling overhead. This approach is particularly useful in advanced wireless systems like 5G and beyond, where beamforming and multi-user MIMO are widely deployed.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein sending the associated information message comprises sending the SSS and PBCH in a time and frequency position relative to the time and frequency position of the PSS.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to techniques for transmitting synchronization signals and broadcast channels in cellular networks. The problem addressed is the efficient and reliable transmission of synchronization signals and system information to enable device synchronization and initial access in a wireless network. The method involves transmitting a primary synchronization signal (PSS) to establish initial timing and frequency synchronization for a user device. Following the PSS, a secondary synchronization signal (SSS) and a physical broadcast channel (PBCH) are sent in a predefined time and frequency position relative to the PSS. The SSS provides additional synchronization information, while the PBCH carries essential system information such as cell identity, system bandwidth, and frame timing. The relative positioning of these signals ensures that a device can accurately detect and decode the synchronization signals and system information, even in challenging radio conditions. The method may also include transmitting multiple synchronization signal blocks (SSBs) in different time and frequency positions to improve coverage and reliability. Each SSB contains the PSS, SSS, and PBCH, and their relative positions are fixed to allow devices to predict and locate these signals efficiently. This approach reduces the complexity of initial access procedures and enhances the robustness of synchronization in wireless networks. The technique is particularly useful in 5G and other advanced wireless communication systems where efficient synchronization and system information delivery are critical for device connectivity and performance.
5. The method of claim 4, wherein the PBCH is transmitted together with a demodulation reference signal which resides in the same OFDM symbol as the PBCH.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving the transmission of a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) in cellular networks. The problem addressed is the need for reliable and efficient synchronization and broadcast information delivery in wireless networks, particularly in scenarios where signal conditions may be challenging. The invention describes a method for transmitting a PBCH, which is a critical channel used to broadcast essential system information to user devices. The PBCH is transmitted alongside a demodulation reference signal (DMRS) within the same Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing (OFDM) symbol. The DMRS is used to assist in the demodulation and decoding of the PBCH, improving reception accuracy. By co-locating the PBCH and DMRS in the same OFDM symbol, the system reduces overhead and enhances synchronization performance, particularly in environments with high interference or multipath fading. The method ensures that the DMRS is properly aligned with the PBCH, allowing receiving devices to accurately estimate the channel conditions and recover the broadcast information. This approach optimizes resource utilization while maintaining robust communication reliability. The technique is particularly useful in modern wireless standards, such as 5G and beyond, where efficient use of spectrum and low-latency synchronization are critical.
7. The method of claim 6, wherein detecting the associated information message comprises detecting the SSS and PBCH in a time and frequency position relative to the time and frequency position of the PSS.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for detecting synchronization signals and associated information in cellular networks. The problem addressed is the efficient and reliable detection of synchronization signals and broadcast channels in wireless communications, which is critical for initial network access and cell synchronization. The method involves detecting a secondary synchronization signal (SSS) and a physical broadcast channel (PBCH) based on their time and frequency positions relative to a primary synchronization signal (PSS). The PSS is a known reference signal used to establish initial timing and frequency synchronization. The SSS and PBCH are detected in specific time and frequency slots that are predetermined relative to the PSS, ensuring accurate synchronization and system information acquisition. The detection process leverages the known relationship between the PSS, SSS, and PBCH to improve detection accuracy and reduce processing overhead. By analyzing the time and frequency positions of these signals, the method ensures that the SSS and PBCH are correctly identified, even in challenging signal conditions. This approach enhances the reliability of initial cell synchronization and reduces the time required for a user device to access the network. The method is particularly useful in 5G and other advanced wireless communication systems where precise synchronization and efficient signal detection are essential for high-speed data transmission and low-latency communication. The technique improves the robustness of synchronization procedures, ensuring seamless connectivity and optimal performance in diverse wireless environments.
8. The method of claim 6, wherein the PBCH is transmitted together with a demodulation reference signal which resides in the same OFDM symbol as the PBCH, and wherein the reference signal used when demodulating the PBCH.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving the transmission and demodulation of the Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) in Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing (OFDM) systems. The PBCH carries essential system information for initial access, such as cell identity and system bandwidth, but its reliable reception can be challenging due to channel conditions. The invention addresses this by co-transmitting the PBCH with a demodulation reference signal (DM-RS) in the same OFDM symbol. The DM-RS is used to demodulate the PBCH, enhancing signal integrity and reception reliability. The reference signal shares the same OFDM symbol as the PBCH, optimizing spectral efficiency while ensuring accurate channel estimation. This approach improves synchronization and data recovery, particularly in environments with high interference or multipath fading. The method ensures that the DM-RS is specifically designed for PBCH demodulation, providing a robust solution for initial cell access in wireless networks. The technique is applicable to 5G and other advanced wireless standards where efficient and reliable broadcast channel transmission is critical.
9. The method of claim 6, wherein the PSS was further sent by network node in a different beam in each of the N OFDM symbols.
A method for transmitting a physical sidelink synchronization signal (PSS) in a wireless communication system addresses the challenge of improving synchronization and signal detection in sidelink communications. The method involves transmitting the PSS in multiple orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) symbols, with each OFDM symbol using a different beam. This approach enhances signal coverage and reliability by leveraging beamforming techniques to mitigate interference and improve signal strength across different spatial directions. The PSS is a critical signal used by devices to synchronize with each other in device-to-device (D2D) or vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communications, ensuring accurate timing and frequency alignment. By transmitting the PSS in multiple beams across N OFDM symbols, the method ensures that the signal reaches devices in various locations and conditions, reducing the likelihood of synchronization failures. This technique is particularly useful in dense networks or environments with high mobility, where signal propagation can be unpredictable. The method may be implemented in network nodes or user equipment (UE) to support robust sidelink communications.
11. The network node of claim 10 wherein the index is an index to one of a set of possible sequences, each of which maps uniquely to at least a subframe offset.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to network nodes that manage synchronization and timing in cellular networks. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and accurate synchronization between network nodes and user devices, particularly in scenarios where timing adjustments are required to align transmissions with subframe boundaries. The network node includes a processor configured to generate an index that corresponds to one of a set of predefined sequences. Each sequence in this set maps uniquely to at least a subframe offset, which represents a timing adjustment needed to synchronize transmissions. The processor uses this index to select the appropriate sequence, which is then transmitted to a user device. The user device decodes the sequence to determine the required subframe offset and adjusts its timing accordingly. This method ensures precise synchronization by leveraging a predefined mapping between sequences and timing offsets, reducing the complexity of synchronization procedures. The network node may also include a transmitter to send the selected sequence to the user device and a receiver to obtain feedback or additional synchronization information. The sequences may be part of a synchronization signal or a reference signal, ensuring compatibility with existing wireless communication standards. This approach improves synchronization accuracy and reduces latency in dynamic network environments.
12. The network node of claim 10, wherein the network node is further configured to transmit the PSS in a different beam in each of the N OFDM symbols.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to techniques for transmitting a Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS) in a network node. The problem addressed is improving synchronization and signal detection in wireless networks, particularly in scenarios with multiple beams and Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing (OFDM) symbols. The network node is configured to transmit the PSS across multiple OFDM symbols, with each symbol carrying the PSS in a different beam. This approach enhances coverage and reliability by ensuring the PSS is broadcast in diverse directions, reducing the likelihood of signal blockage or interference. The network node dynamically adjusts the beam direction for each OFDM symbol, allowing the PSS to reach a wider range of devices in the network. This method is particularly useful in dense urban environments or high-mobility scenarios where signal propagation conditions vary rapidly. The network node includes a transmitter and a controller. The transmitter generates and broadcasts the PSS, while the controller manages the beamforming process, ensuring the PSS is transmitted in distinct beams for each OFDM symbol. The system may also include synchronization circuitry to align the PSS transmission with other network operations, ensuring seamless communication. This technique improves initial cell acquisition and handover procedures, enhancing overall network performance.
13. The network node of claim 10, wherein sending the associated information message comprises sending the SSS and PBCH in a time and frequency position relative to the time and frequency position of the PSS.
A network node in a wireless communication system transmits synchronization signals and broadcast information to enable device synchronization and system access. The node sends a primary synchronization signal (PSS) to establish initial timing alignment. Additionally, the node transmits a secondary synchronization signal (SSS) and a physical broadcast channel (PBCH) carrying essential system information. The SSS and PBCH are positioned in a specific time and frequency location relative to the PSS to ensure proper detection and decoding by receiving devices. This structured transmission allows devices to synchronize with the network and acquire necessary configuration parameters for further communication. The relative positioning of the signals optimizes synchronization accuracy and reduces processing overhead for devices. The system supports efficient cell search and handover procedures by maintaining a predictable signal structure. The node may also adjust transmission parameters based on network conditions to enhance reliability and coverage. This approach improves synchronization performance in diverse wireless environments, including high-mobility and dense deployment scenarios.
14. The network node of claim 13, wherein the PBCH is transmitted together with a demodulation reference signal which resides in the same OFDM symbol as the PBCH.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving the transmission of a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) in cellular networks. The problem addressed is the need for more efficient and reliable synchronization and broadcast information delivery in wireless networks, particularly in scenarios where signal quality or interference may degrade performance. The invention describes a network node, such as a base station, configured to transmit a PBCH along with a demodulation reference signal (DMRS) in the same Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing (OFDM) symbol. This co-transmission allows a receiving device to use the DMRS for channel estimation and demodulation of the PBCH, improving signal integrity and reducing latency. The DMRS provides reference points for the receiver to accurately decode the broadcast information, which is critical for initial cell access and synchronization. The network node may also include additional features, such as transmitting the PBCH in a specific time-frequency resource block, adjusting transmission parameters based on channel conditions, or supporting multiple transmission modes to enhance reliability. The co-location of the PBCH and DMRS in the same OFDM symbol optimizes resource utilization and ensures that the reference signal is available when needed for demodulation, reducing the risk of errors in critical broadcast information. This approach is particularly useful in high-mobility or interference-prone environments where signal integrity is challenging to maintain.
16. The wireless device of claim 15, wherein detecting the associated information message comprises detecting the SSS and PBCH in a time and frequency position relative to the time and frequency position of the PSS.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving synchronization and initial access procedures in cellular networks. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable detection of synchronization signals and broadcast channels to establish communication between a wireless device and a base station. The invention provides a method for a wireless device to detect an information message, which includes a secondary synchronization signal (SSS) and a physical broadcast channel (PBCH), based on the time and frequency position of a primary synchronization signal (PSS). The PSS is a known reference signal used to identify the base station and provide initial timing synchronization. By detecting the SSS and PBCH relative to the PSS, the wireless device can accurately determine the frame timing, cell identity, and other essential system information required for network access. This approach enhances synchronization accuracy and reduces the complexity of initial access procedures, improving overall network efficiency and reliability. The invention is particularly useful in 5G and other advanced wireless communication systems where precise synchronization is critical for high-speed data transmission and low-latency communication.
17. The wireless device of claim 15, wherein the PBCH is transmitted together with a demodulation reference signal which resides in the same OFDM symbol as the PBCH, and wherein the reference signal used when demodulating the PBCH.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving the transmission and demodulation of the Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) in cellular networks. The PBCH carries essential system information that user devices need to access the network, such as cell identity and synchronization details. A key challenge in wireless communication is ensuring reliable PBCH reception, especially in environments with interference or poor signal conditions. The invention addresses this by transmitting the PBCH alongside a demodulation reference signal (DMRS) within the same Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing (OFDM) symbol. The DMRS is used to demodulate the PBCH, improving signal quality and reception accuracy. By co-locating the PBCH and DMRS in the same OFDM symbol, the system reduces overhead and latency while enhancing demodulation performance. This approach ensures that the reference signal is closely aligned with the PBCH, minimizing phase and timing discrepancies that could degrade signal integrity. The wireless device receiving the PBCH uses the co-transmitted DMRS to accurately decode the broadcast information, even in challenging radio conditions. This method is particularly useful in 5G and other advanced wireless networks where efficient use of spectrum and reliable signal transmission are critical. The invention improves network accessibility and reliability by optimizing the PBCH transmission process.
18. The wireless device of claim 15, wherein the PSS was further sent by network node in a different beam in each of the N OFDM symbols.
A wireless device receives a primary synchronization signal (PSS) from a network node, where the PSS is transmitted in a different beam for each of N orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) symbols. The PSS is used for initial cell search and synchronization in wireless communication systems, such as 5G or other cellular networks. The device detects the PSS across multiple OFDM symbols, each carrying the signal in a distinct beam direction, to improve synchronization accuracy and coverage. The network node transmits the PSS in a beam-sweeping manner, adjusting the beam direction for each OFDM symbol to cover a wider area and enhance signal reception. This technique helps mitigate multipath interference and improves synchronization performance in environments with varying channel conditions. The wireless device processes the received PSS signals from different beams to determine the optimal synchronization timing and establish a reliable connection with the network. This method is particularly useful in high-frequency bands where beamforming is essential for maintaining signal integrity over long distances. The device may further use the PSS to identify the network node and perform initial access procedures, such as random access and handover. The beam-sweeping transmission of the PSS ensures robust synchronization even in challenging propagation scenarios.
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September 28, 2020
May 7, 2024
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